About Us

The East Texas Art League believes in the power of the visual arts. Formed during the summer of 2001, the organization incorporated and obtained an IRS 501-3(c) non-profit status the following year. Our membership grew from 30 charter members to a current, active membership of 70.

In the summer of 2002, we purchased the old Morgan Hotel, a two story structure (located near downtown Jasper) dating back to the early 20th century. Thanks to a grant from the City of Jasper, the bottom floor was renovated and opened as the East Texas Regional Art Center in the spring of 2003. For the first time in its history, the City of Jasper, Texas offered a facility dedicated to the support and cultivation of visual artists and their work.

The lower floor houses two galleries, Austin Street and Gallery Hall, as well as a large classroom, a library, gift shop, kitchen, and restroom. Another nearby classroom is utilized only for ceramics. Austin Street Gallery offers 6-8 exhibits per year, featuring national, regional, and local artists. Here you'll enjoy two and three-dimensional works of art representing a wide diversity of styles and media that ranges from the abstract to realistic.

Adult classes - offered during the summer, fall, and spring, - are taught by qualified artists talented in drawing, watercolor, pastels, ceramics, and mosaics. Classes in other media will be added as instructors become available. The Center’s educational facilities also host a Home School art program. These hands-on, artistic opportunities - offered to East Texas Home School students - explore the subjects of drawing, painting, design, printmaking, and ceramics. Each year, a special Austin Street Gallery exhibit features their work.

Renovations to the 2nd floor continue at a gradual pace. A frame shop opened here on June 1, 2007. Future plans for the remaining floor space include artist studios, and additional classrooms.

The Art Center is operated strictly by a volunteer work force. Its programs are supported by donations, art and gift shop sales, and fund-raising activities.Please let us know if you'd like to donate time, money, etc. to help support the Center and its diverse activities. Your interest and help are very much appreciated. Many of the artworks on display in our galleries are available for purchase. Some of our member/artists also accept work assignments on commission. Please contact us at the Center at 409 / 384-2404 if you have any questions or suggestions. We look forward to hearing from you. Even better yet, come see us and enjoy our beautiful art work!